David Hodgson breezed back into action as Darlington manager today, relishing the job ahead.

Hodgson will not be bringing in new blood to play at Hornchurch in the FA Cup on Sunday, but will quickly ring the changes should the team not reach his expectations.

The manager has already identified four potential signings, two from abroad, but will first give the current squad a chance to shine.

They did just that at Oxford on Saturday, but only for 45 minutes, David McGurk putting them ahead.

Inexperience cost them dearly in the second half, as Oxford's old heads took advantage with three goals and some cynical tactics. David McGurk and Danny Mellanby were both sent off for the second time this season.

McGurk picked up two bookings which both appeared undeserved, while Mellanby foolishly barged Oxford keeper Andy Woodman, who went down clutching his head.

"He made a meal of it," said Quakers coach Martin Gray.

"I can't fault any of our players."

Woodman, who has written a book with his friend, Boro star Gareth Southgate, may not be selling too many in Darlington, and it is highly unlikely to feature on Mellanby's Christmas list.